The decorated track legend recently received what she believes to be her last major award.
Track legend Elma Muros-Posadas recently added the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Lifetime Achievement Award to her vast trophy collection. After receiving the honor, the 56-year-old icon can’t help but be emotional.
Her lifelong relationship with sports has gone full circle, and she genuinely sounded grateful for everything she has achieved, including the latest recognition given to her by the PSA.
“Ito na ‘yung last achievement. Kumbaga ‘yung 15 golds ko sa Southeast Asia, ‘yung two times na back-to-back ko sa Asian Games na puro bronze sa 400 hurdles tsaka sa long jump…Tapos ‘yung twice ko na naging Athlete of the Year, tapos ‘yung last year na Hall of Fame, plus itong Lifetime Achievement Award, nakakaiyak. Thank you talaga,” the Southeast Asian long jump queen said.
Even so, her contributions to the country can't be fully measured by simply counting the 24 medals that she won in various international events. As a successful female athlete, she understands her responsibilities to the nation and its future generations.
“Bilang isang babae, empowered woman, thank you Lord talaga. Kasi ito ‘yung nabubuhay na ako na, ‘yung award na ‘to is nilaan ko na para sa pamilya ko, sa aking bayan Pilipinas, sa anak ko, iiwanan ko ng legacy ang mga kabataan sa pamamagitan ng sports,” Muros-Posadas told the members of the media.
The track and field great is committed to imparting her knowledge to the country’s youth. Since her retirement in 2001, the pride of Magdiwang, Romblon has turned to coaching, and she has relished the opportunity every step of the way. Her wish at this point in her life is to remain as a source of inspiration to others.
“May hihilingin pa pala ako, na 'yung buhay ko humaba pa para maraming kabataan pa rin na habang nakikita pa kami, kaya pa na ma-develop sila, [magkaroon ng] motivation para sa bansang Pilipinas,” the Hall of Famer said.
As a gifted athlete, Muros-Posadas has been a great asset to Philippine sports for a long time. But as a role model, she might even be a bigger blessing to young Filipinos across the land.